Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016)
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00
iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at
£192.40What's the difference between the Google Pixel 3a and iPhone SE (2016)?
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3a starts at £155, £37.40 less than the iPhone SE (2016). The Google Pixel 3a is the newer model, released in 2019.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016).
- The Google Pixel 3a has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) specs
The Google Pixel 3a and the iPhone SE (2016) offer different experiences suited to distinct needs. The Pixel 3a features a larger OLED screen with higher resolution, more RAM, and a bigger battery, which benefits those who want a roomier display and longer battery life for everyday tasks. The iPhone SE (2016) has a smaller screen and lower RAM but offers a compact size and an iOS experience. Both phones support 4G and unlocked carrier use. The Pixel 3a supports eSIM alongside a physical SIM, while the iPhone SE uses a physical SIM only. Your choice depends on whether you value a bigger display and more memory or prefer a smaller device with iOS.
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) price
Colour
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) battery life and software updates
Durability factors include battery capacity, operating system, and software updates. Both phones have their own operating systems.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3a has a 3000 mAh battery, which offers more capacity than the iPhone SE (2016), which has 1624 mAh. A larger battery can provide longer usage between charges, suiting users who need extended battery life throughout the day.
Operating System
The Google Pixel 3a runs Android, while the iPhone SE (2016) uses iOS. Your preference for either system will influence the user experience, app compatibility, and interface style.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) performance
Performance depends on chipset, RAM, and storage. Both phones come with 64GB of storage, but they have different processors and memory capacities affecting multitasking and app performance.
Processor Chipset
The Google Pixel 3a uses a Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm), while the iPhone SE (2016) has an Apple A9 (14 nm). The Pixel 3a's chipset is built on a smaller nanometre process, which can offer efficiency benefits in everyday use.
RAM Capacity
With 4 GB of RAM, the Google Pixel 3a supports more apps running simultaneously compared to the iPhone SE (2016), which has 2 GB of RAM. This makes the Pixel 3a more suited to multitasking and handling memory-demanding applications.
Storage
Both the Google Pixel 3a and the iPhone SE (2016) come with 64GB of storage in the versions we stock. This capacity is suitable for everyday use including apps, photos, and media files.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) screen
Screen quality affects viewing experience for videos, reading, and general use. Differences in size, resolution, and screen type define how each phone displays content.
Screen Size
The Google Pixel 3a has a 5.6 inch screen, offering a larger display area compared to the iPhone SE (2016) with its 4 inch screen. The bigger screen is better for watching videos, browsing, and typing for users who want more space.
Resolution
The Pixel 3a features a resolution of 1080 x 2220, delivering sharper and clearer images than the iPhone SE (2016), which has a resolution of 640 x 1136. Higher resolution benefits users who prioritise detailed visuals.
Screen Type
The Google Pixel 3a uses an OLED screen, known for deeper blacks and more vibrant colours, while the iPhone SE (2016) has an IPS LCD screen, which offers consistent colours and good viewing angles. Your choice depends on whether you prefer vivid contrast or traditional LCD display qualities.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) camera
Camera quality impacts your photo and video captures, while front cameras affect selfies and video calls. Both phones have similar main camera megapixels but differ notably in front camera capability.
Front Camera Megapixels
The Google Pixel 3a offers an 8 megapixel front camera, which is well suited for selfies and video chats with more detail. The iPhone SE (2016) has a 1.2 megapixel front camera, providing basic front-facing photo and video functionality.
Main Camera Megapixels
Both phones have main cameras with similar megapixel counts: 12.2 megapixels on the Pixel 3a and 12 megapixels on the iPhone SE (2016). This means both can take photos with comparable detail under good conditions.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) size and design
Other features include network compatibility, SIM card options, and physical dimensions. These details affect daily usability and how the phones fit into your lifestyle.
SIM Card Options
The Google Pixel 3a supports both a physical SIM and eSIM, giving users flexibility to use two numbers or easily switch carriers. The iPhone SE (2016) supports a physical SIM only, which suits users with a single carrier plan.
Device Size and Weight
The Google Pixel 3a measures 151.3 mm in height, 70.1 mm in width, and 8.2 mm in depth, weighing 147 g. The iPhone SE (2016) is smaller and lighter at 123.8 mm height, 58.6 mm width, 7.6 mm depth, and 113 g weight. The iPhone SE suits those who want a compact phone that fits easily in pockets or small hands.
Network Compatibility
Both the Google Pixel 3a and iPhone SE (2016) support 4G networks and are unlocked, which means they can be used with a range of carriers in the UK and abroad.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 3a or iPhone SE (2016): which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £155, £37.40 less than the iPhone SE (2016)
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 1624 mAh)
Buy the iPhone SE (2016) if
- you want a lighter build (113 g vs 147 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Google Pixel 3a often praise its condition and reliability, noting it looks like new and works well for everyday use. Some mention occasional slow performance or hardware quirks, but many find it easy to set up and appreciate its larger screen and battery. Users who installed alternative operating systems also report good experiences. Overall, the Pixel 3a appeals to those wanting a bigger display and more memory with Android.
Reviewers of the iPhone SE (2016) highlight its compact size and good battery life for daily tasks. They find it smooth for use and appreciate the value it offers, especially at a lower price point. Some note the smaller screen but feel it suits users who prefer simplicity or an iOS device. Several customers mention minor scratches but are satisfied with the phone's condition and performance for everyday needs.
The Pixel 3a is suited to users who want a larger screen and more multitasking capability, while the iPhone SE (2016) fits those who prioritise a smaller handset with iOS. Both have loyal followings based on their particular strengths.
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) FAQs
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016). The Google Pixel 3a has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
The Google Pixel 3a is cheaper refurbished, from £155 compared with £192.40 for the iPhone SE (2016).
The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3a has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone SE (2016) has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 3a ended in May 2022. Its last version is Android 12.1. Updates for the iPhone SE (2016) ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15.
Both come in 64GB refurbished.
